The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) announced on October 1 several new initiatives in its regional development and security programs focusing on legal measures, infrastructure funding, and streamlining government efforts.
New leaders and structure
The task force added new members to its main decision-making body, the Executive Committee. These include the heads of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Presidential Communications Office, and the Philippine National Police’s acting chief, among others.
New officials were also sworn in to lead its regional and national efforts. The new appointments include four department secretaries who will serve as “Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security” (CORDS), a role that coordinates government efforts in specific regions.
The newly designated CORDS are: DICT Secretary Henry Aguda – for Region IV-B (MIMAROPA); DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon – for Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula); Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa – for Region X (Northern Mindanao); and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. – for Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN).
Bishop Noel Pantoja, representing the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, also joined the committee as a representative from the private sector.
New heads were appointed to head three of the task force’s specialized teams, including the groups focused on strategic communications, community empowerment, and international engagement.
Support for anti-terrorism bill
The task force expressed strong support for Senate Bill No. 1366, the proposed “Terror Grooming Prevention Act.” They stated the law is needed to protect youth and vulnerable communities from being recruited by terrorist groups.
Pushing to formally declare CPP-NPA-NDF as terrorists
Government lawyers are now working to file a “proscription case” in court. While the CPP-NPA-NDF is already on the official list of designated terrorist organizations, a proscription is a stricter legal classification that would give authorities more power to arrest members and freeze assets.
Funding for community projects
The task force is pushing for full funding of its Barangay Development Program (BDP), which provides P10 million per barangay for community projects like farm-to-market roads, school buildings, and health stations.
For 2026, 808 barangays are slated to benefit. Officials emphasized strict monitoring to prevent corruption and ensure the funds are used properly.
Extending the amnesty program
A recommendation was made to extend the application period for the government’s amnesty program for former rebels by two years, until 2028.
The National Amnesty Commission reported that out of an estimated 10,000 potential applicants, 4,269 have applied so far, with nine recently approved by the President.
The task force reiterated that these efforts are part of a “whole-of-nation” approach to promote peace and development, with military, church, and civilian groups working together. — iNewsPH.com
